A Jann Arden Christmas

What happens when two music icons collaborate on an age-old tradition? Well, this may be one instance where history is re-written for the better. Platinum recording artist and acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter Jann Arden releases her first Christmas Album, A Jann Arden Christmas, with the help of legendary producer (and Grammy-Award winner) Bob Rock under Universal Music Canada.

Arden — a Juno-winning artist selling over 1.5 million records — is still in the midst of a remarkable career spanning over 22 years, dating back to her 1993 debut album, Time for Mercy which catapulted her into the Canadian music scene.

Now, with 12 albums, 19 top-ten singles and a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame under her belt, the Calgary native is still determined to make her mark with a fresh take on classic Christmas songs.

EXTRAORDINARY BY ASSOCIATION
It’s not every day an artist and producer of this calibre join forces, let alone on something like a holiday album. However, fans of both Arden and Rock needn’t be worried.

The iconic producer (born in Winnipeg) has more than expressed his joy for working with Arden, which are high accolades coming from the man who has produced records for seemingly every top artist under the sun, from Cher to Metallica.

“It was an amazing experience making what could be the finest record Jann has ever made… it just happened to be a Christmas record,” exclaims Rock.

Having first worked together in 2010 on the single “I Can’t Make You Stay,” Rock and Arden mixed the festive tracks at Toronto’s Revolution Recording, with performers on the album including members of her touring band coming on board.

A TIME-HONOURED CLASSICAL FEEL
Indeed some favourites on from the album are new interpretations, but still include a classic Christmas feel. Foremost from a seven-piece symphonic string section featured in the recordings to ensure each track pleases not only brighteyed youngsters, but mom and pop as well.

“I always wanted to make a Christmas record, and I wanted to do something really, really special and timeless,” expresses Arden, who has grabbed inspiration from a litany sources to ensure A
Jann Arden Christmas is like no other Christmas album before it. Songs are poised to stay at the top of iPhone playlists for years to come.

For example, a rendition of “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” is the Canadian’s ode to Mary Poppins while “Silent Night” is inspired by Elvis’ version from the late sixties, which amazingly includes vocals from Arden’s basement demo-sessions.

More pleasant surprises certainly lie within the recordings adding excitement to classic songs that may have begun to taste stale after so many years.

Though, with loyal fans and a strong social media following, the album is sure to be top of mind and maintain its spot on radio stations this holiday season.